B.S., Biology, Iowa State University, 1977.
Ph.D., Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Arizona, 1990.

Ecology and evolution of cephalopod molluscs, deep-sea biology/reproductive biology/marine biogeography.

My research uses phylogenetic reconstruction based on morphological and anatomical characters to assess distributional and evolutionary patterns, especially of deep-sea animals. Octopuses, cephalopod mollusks, are my taxon of choice. Members of this clade occur from the epi-pelagic waters near the sea surface to benthic habitats on the abyssal plain, and in all intermediate habitats. The identification of natural groups within this ubiquitous marine clade promises to reveal historical patterns of diversification of marine animals. The comparative anatomical studies on which my phylogenetic work is based are also vital to providing insight into the biology and ecology of these little-known and very rarely observed animals, demonstrating the power preserved specimens have in elucidating mechanisms of mate choice, sperm competition and foraging strategies.

Voight's expeditions@fieldmuseum

Expeditions at The Field Museum carries a report of Dr. Voight's month-long research cruise on board the R/V ATLANTIS with the Deep-Submergence Vehicle ALVIN in 2003.